Bibhu Mohapatra debuts Spring/Summer 2021 Collection at New York Fashion Week

For his Spring/Summer 2021 collection, Mohapatra draws inspiration from female revolutionary, Amrita Sher-Gil, an Indian artist who challenged the Indian art scene at the height of the 20th century.  Albeit way ahead of her time, Amrita took a bold and daring approach towards her life and her artistic milieu, particularly notable given the political and social climate toward women in Indian at the time (and even today). This rebellious spirit led her to blaze a trail for future generations of artists, who to this day continue to honor her legacy of iconoclastic expression and challenging the norm. 

To bring the collection to life, Mohapatra has tapped New York-based filmmaker and friend, Shruti Ganguly and photographer JD Urban, who have directed a film celebrating the life of Amrita.  The 2 minutes 40-second short film will celebrate Amrita, as she creates some of her most iconic works and the muses who inspire her. The film features Ariana DeBose, the star of the upcoming Spielberg-directed “West Side Story” and Hamilton alum, who plays the main Muse. The role of Amrita is played by actress Reema Sampat. Known for exploring design through the lens of culture and historical craft, Mohapatra used this season to dig deeper into the process of change and transformation. By collaborating with a visionary directing team and his female leads he found the best way to articulate his craft and take it to the next level. The film will include 3 scenes, Three Girls, 1932, and Hungarian Gypsy Girl. Each scene strategically highlights the artistry and synergy between Mohapatra and Sher-Gill through the various forms of art.  “To change, we must move, be it awkward, unfamiliar, uncomfortable, and (hopefully) enlightening.” - says Mohapatra 

The collection will feature pieces and looks that are true to the classic Bibhu architectural trademarks tapping into his mother being his first muse, he’s implemented an organic contrast between past seasons and now. The 26 piece collection will feature custom-designed guipure lace, colorful tulle, chantilly lace, and silk canvas fabrics while adding imaginative elements such as Supima cotton day pieces to denim looks with “B” logo embroideries using Indian handwork reminiscent of his childhood while also utilizing and vibrant colors like chartreuse, lime, pink, nudes, and different hues of blue.  Bibhu says color is in his heritage.

 In addition to the collection, Mohapatra returns for another season with an exclusive fine jewelry partner Forevermark. This season, Mohapatra highlights two unique earrings from Forevermark, a pair of oversized teardrop Diamond Earrings, and a pair of chandelier earrings from the Forevermark Black Label Collection™. This will also be Mohapatra’s second season partnering with the luxury footwear brand, Mia Becar.